Rachel is a female given name of Hebrew origin that means "ewe" or "female sheep." It is derived from the Hebrew word "kheres," which refers to a ewe lamb. The name Rachel was borne by several important figures in the Bible, including the wife of Jacob and the mother of Joseph and Benjamin.
In the Bible, Rachel is described as being very beautiful and beloved by her husband Jacob. She is also known for giving birth to Joseph after years of infertility. Despite her brief appearance in the Bible, Rachel has become a popular name among Jewish families throughout history.
The name Rachel has been used for centuries and has gained popularity in many different cultures around the world. In English-speaking countries, it has been consistently ranked as one of the top 1000 names for girls since the mid-20th century. Today, Rachel remains a beloved and timeless name choice for parents seeking a meaningful and beautiful name for their daughter.
In terms of notable figures with the name Rachel, there are many to choose from across various fields. Some examples include Rachel Carson, the American marine biologist and conservationist whose groundbreaking book "Silent Spring" helped launch the environmental movement; Rachel Whiteread, an English artist known for her conceptual sculpture that explores themes of absence and presence; and Rachel Maddow, an American television host, political commentator, and author who hosts her own show on MSNBC. These individuals have all made significant contributions in their respective fields, showcasing the diversity and talent of those named Rachel throughout history.
Statistics on the name Rachel in the United States show a varied pattern of usage over time. The name was most popular during the late 1970s to mid-1980s, with a peak of 16 births recorded in 1985.
Interestingly, despite fluctuations in popularity, Rachel has maintained a consistent presence among baby names throughout the period analyzed. Between 1976 and 1995, there were at least five births per year for every year except 1988 and 1991, which saw eight and six births respectively.
Overall, according to the statistics provided, Rachel has been a moderately popular name in the United States over this time period. With a total of 128 births recorded from 1976 to 1995, Rachel has proven to be a timeless choice for parents looking for a classic yet distinctive name for their daughters.